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Dianthus Fringed Pink

Dianthus superbus

$9.50

Herbaceous perennial which forms a low mat of grey leaves approximately 30cm wide. These silvery mounds are topped by lilacy-pink flowers from mid-summer to autumn. The flowers are loosely tufted, giving them a shaggy or feathery appearance, and their clove-like fragrance is attractive to bees and butterflies as well as humans! The stems are well self-supporting, and they make good cut flowers. Height to 45cm when in flower, sometimes taller.

9cm pot

Photos: Kahikatea Farm

Cultivation

Native to grasslands, hillsides and open woodlands across Northern Europe and Asia, it is best suited to well drained soils in partial shade in most of New Zealand, and will require some extra moisture in the hottest part of summer. Frost hardy. Avoid wet winter soils which may cause crown rot.

Uses

Dianthus species are common garden plants, but not many people know that the (young) leaves and fragrant flowers are edible. Use them in salads and to decorate cakes. They are also good for the vase.

Medicinal Uses

This particular species of dianthus has traditionally been used in Chinese Medicine, where it is known as qúmài (瞿麦). The whole plant is used for its cooling, diuretic, and menstrual flow-promoting effects. Many recent studies have shown the plant to have significant antimicrobial, anticancer and antioxidant properties.

History / Folklore / Further Info

Dianthus means ‘flower of the gods’.

Herbie Says

Dianthus species are considered mildly toxic to dogs and cats. I’ve given it a sniff and I’m not sure I’d really go for it anyway to be honest, though Mum says she loves the clove-like fragrance!

Shipping Advice

N.B. Shipping costs are added AFTER you have placed your order, you will then be emailed an invoice with bank details. 

Smallest box rate:
This can fit up to 9 plants in 9cm pots.

Shipping a single tree can be expensive. We may be able to fit more in the box for the same price! See our shipping rates for single and multi tree boxes.

Combining sizes?
No problem, we will work out the best rate for you once you’ve placed your order.

Medical disclaimer

Jo has a passion for growing herbs but is not a qualified herbalist and has no medical background.

We are lucky to have Patricia Beagle working here at times, who is qualified, and some of her advice does appear on these pages, but herbs act differently for different people and can interact with other medicines. We therefore always recommend that you consult with your own qualified health-care practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing or on any medications.

Kahikatea Farm cannot take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of the plants or a plant not having the effect it is reputed to have. 

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